SoC First Year Seminar: Interdisciplinary Topics in Communication Arts & Sciences (101-0-2)

Topic

Storytelling Across Stage and Screen

Instructors

Aaron Godwin

Nathaniel Rossi

Meeting Info

Shepard Hall B25: Mon, Wed 12:30PM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

Why do certain stories thrive in the live, physical setting of a theatre while others require the intimacy afforded through cinema? How does shifting a narrative from a shared public space to a highly mediated format alter its meaning, character dynamics, and broader cultural impact?

In this interdisciplinary seminar, we will explore the complexities of adapting stories, across both stage and screen and time and space. By critically analyzing how stories are constructed and told, students will discover how the medium affects our understanding of the narrative and the ways we experience it.

Through weekly viewings, lively discussions, and creative critical assignments, students will develop a shared vocabulary for both theatrical and cinematic analysis and a deeper understanding of and appreciation for how stories are constructed.

Registration Requirements

Registration is limited to SoC First-Year students assigned to take a first-year seminar in Fall 2026. If attempting to swap a section after registration, please reach out to dear-soc@northwestern.edu for assistance.

Learning Objectives

Learning Goal: Engage critical thinking skills while exploring the breadth of School of
Communication creative and research endeavors.

Learning Outcome: Students will identify key factors relevant to the course topic,
differentiate between multiple perspectives and interpretations, and explain how at least
two School of Communication disciplines might approach a given topic.

Learning Goal: Experiment with research and communication conventions associated with
School of Communication disciplines.

Learning Outcome: Students will demonstrate their ability to communicate ideas and/or
experiences compellingly by using appropriate research tools, soliciting feedback,
employing disciplinary conventions, and addressing audience expectations.

Learning Goal: Collaborate with peers from different SoC majors to highlight the benefits of
interdisciplinary inquiry.

Learning Outcome: Students will collaborate with peers across different majors to
successfully complete at least one group project and reflect upon the skills employed to
accomplish that task.

Class Attributes

SOC First-Year Seminar